For the first time in its 40 year history, a deluge of rain and the concern for the safety of the riders made it necessary to postpone the FEI Grand Prix B, the qualifier for the Grand Prix Freestyle, until today. As a result, the Grand Prix Freestyle was moved to Sunday. So, Saturday’s schedule looked a little different than in the past 40 years. But it was a truly exciting day with great performances.

FEI Intermediaire 1
The day in the Dixon started off with the FEI Intermediaire 1O CDI3, won by Folkestone (Fidertanz x EI. Kattulika), a 9-year- old Oldenburg gelding. Rebecca Langwost-Barlow is a USDF Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalist and one of the earliest USDF certified trainers to the Fourth Level as well as a world-ranked Grand Prix rider – and a Dressage with the Experts commentator. Speaking of Folkestone, she said “the carriage on that horse was really impressive. He had by far the most consistent uphill balance and engagement. The rider rode very accurate corners and used them very well.”

“At this level you’re looking for a horse that has a good attitude, has the desire and has ability. You don’t expect it all during the whole test. There were a few horses that demonstrated raw talent and it will just take time. Others may not have been as talented but they had super ridability. “ We can look forward to seeing many of these horses in upcoming shows.

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